Symptomatic HIV, or early symptomatic HIV infection, occurs when a patient infected with the human immunodeficiency virus experiences symptoms, but has yet to develop AIDS. Symptoms of symptomatic HIV infection can persist for several years before the disease progresses to advanced HIV disease. People who develop symptomatic HIV infection symptoms should consult a doctor to discuss options for symptom management.
Diarrhea
One of the most common symptoms of symptomatic HIV infection is diarrhea, explains MedlinePlus. Affected patients can experience frequent, loose bowel movements that cause abdominal cramping or bloating. Persistent diarrhea can also result in appetite loss or weight loss in patients with HIV.
Fever or Night Sweats
Patients with symptomatic HIV infections can develop fever symptoms. A fever is an increase in body temperature, which may lead to sweating, chills or headache in affected patients. Additionally, certain people with a symptomatic HIV infection can experience profuse sweating or night sweats, as noted by medical experts with the University of Maryland Medical Center. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and may cause patients to wake frequently throughout the night drenched in sweat.
Fatigue or Joint Pain
Symptomatic HIV infections can cause excessive fatigue in affected patients. Increased fatigue can occur in conjunction with joint aches and pains or malaise, according to PennState Hershey medical professionals. Patients who experience excessive fatigue can have difficulty participating in normal daily activities, such as work or school. Affected patients may sleep for long periods of time throughout the day and may still feel tired or achy when they wake up.
Oral Infections
Oral infections can arise in patients with symptomatic HIV infections. These oral infections can be uncomfortable and may include oral thrush and gingivitis, explains MedlinePlus. Certain patients can develop hairy tongue, also called oral hairy leukoplakia, as a symptom of symptomatic HIV infection. Oral infections can cause discomfort or pain when a patient attempts to eat or drink.
Enlarged Lymph Glands
The lymph glands are a part of the immune system that help remove toxins from the bloodstream. Patients with symptomatic HIV infection can develop unusually enlarged or swollen lymph glands as a symptom of this disease, UMMC health professionals observe. Enlarged lymph glands are typically painless but can appear swollen for several months or years in patients with symptomatic HIV.
Skin Problems
Skin problems can emerge as symptom of infection in patients with symptomatic HIV. Affected patients can develop seborrheic dermatitis or fungal nail or skin infections, according to PennState Hershey medical professionals. Consequently, patients with symptomatic HIV infections can develop dry, flaky or itchy patches of skin that appear red or inflamed across the body.
